Cinque Terre & Tuscany with Florence, Siena and San Gimignano
This professionally organised Escorted Tour invites travellers to discover the very best of central Italy, basing themselves in the elegant spa town of Montecatini. Our Cinque Terre Tuscany tour is designed for those who appreciate a balance of guided exploration and the freedom to discover local charm at their own pace. By staying in one hotel for the duration of the trip, you can unpack once and truly settle into the relaxed rhythm of Tuscan life. Montecatini is perfectly positioned for rail and road access, making it an ideal starting point for our planned excursions while offering its own historic thermal spas and Art Deco architecture to enjoy during your leisure time.
The itinerary focuses on the most iconic landmarks of the region, including a dedicated day in Florence where you will see the incredible architectural feats of the Duomo and the historic Ponte Vecchio. We also travel to the Ligurian coast to witness the dramatic beauty of the Cinque Terre. Rather than navigating the busy streets on foot all day, our tour provides a scenic boat journey, allowing you to admire the colourful cliffside villages from the water. In the heart of the countryside, you will explore the medieval towers of San Gimignano and the UNESCO-recognised streets of Siena, complete with a traditional wine tasting at a local organic farmhouse to sample the authentic flavour of the region.
With direct flights from Dublin to Pisa, all transfers included, and the expertise of a local tour guide, this holiday offers straightforward value and a stress-free way to experience Italy’s cultural heart. Whether you are marvelling at the art in Florence, enjoying a gelato in a sunny piazza, or taking the historic funicular up to Montecatini Alto for the views, this tour ensures you see the highlights without the hassle of planning the logistics yourself. It is a wonderful opportunity for travellers to enjoy the history, scenery, and hospitality that Tuscany is famous for, all while supported by the dedicated team at Travel Escapes.
Where is the tour based?
Are flights and luggage included?
Is there a lot of walking involved?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return direct scheduled flights from Dublin to Pisa
- All airport taxes, charges, and fees
- 20kg checked bag per person
- Return airport coach transfers
- 7 nights accommodation at the 4* Grand Hotel Croce di Malta, Montecatini
- Bed & Breakfast
- Tour of Florence
- Tour of Sienna & San Gimignano
- Tour of Cinque Terre
- The assistance of our local tour guide and dedicated tour co-ordinator
Itinerary
1Arrival in Pisa and Transfer to Montecatini+
Upon arrival at Pisa Airport, you will be met by your Tour Manager and transferred to the spa town of Montecatini. This elegant town will serve as your base for the week. After checking in, you will join a relaxed orientation walk to get to know the local area, its shops, and cafes before having the rest of the day to settle in at your own pace.
2At Leisure in Tuscany+
Enjoy a free day to relax in Montecatini Terme, perhaps visiting one of the town's historic thermal spas. For those who wish to explore further, the train station provides easy access to the walled city of Lucca, famous for its Renaissance walls and oval-shaped Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. You could also take a short train journey to see the world-famous Leaning Tower in Pisa.
3Florence Treasures on your Cinque Terre Tuscany tour+
Travel by train into the heart of Florence for a two-hour guided walking tour. You will see the Gothic Santa Maria Novella church, the Piazza della Signoria, and the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge. The tour also visits the magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore with its famous Brunelleschi dome. Afterwards, you will have plenty of free time for shopping or visiting one of the city's many museums before returning to Montecatini.
4Relaxation in the Garden City+
Spend another day exploring Montecatini Terme, known as the 'Garden City'. You can walk through the beautiful parks, admire the Art Deco and Liberty style architecture, or browse the local boutiques. It is a perfect opportunity to soak up the local atmosphere and enjoy a coffee in one of the many inviting squares.
5The Beauty of Cinque Terre+
Discover the Ligurian coastline on a full-day excursion. You will start with a scenic boat ride from La Spezia to Portovenere, often called the 'sixth village' of the Cinque Terre. Continue by boat to Monterosso, passing the cliffside villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, and Vernazza. After free time to explore Monterosso's old town and seafront, you will return via train and coach.
6Montecatini Alto and Local Discoveries+
Take today to explore more of Montecatini at your own speed. A popular choice is the historic funicular railway up to Montecatini Alto, a hilltop village offering panoramic views. Alternatively, a 30-minute journey takes you to Pistoia, an atmospheric town and former Capital of Culture, where you can visit the Cathedral or explore its unique underground passages.
7Siena and San Gimignano Excursion+
Head into the Tuscan countryside to visit San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers. After some free time, visit a local farmhouse for an organic food and wine tasting session, featuring local Vernaccia wine and traditional snacks. The day concludes in the UNESCO world heritage town of Siena for a guided walking tour of its historic centre and famous shell-shaped piazza.
8Homeward Journey+
After a final breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and meet your coach for the transfer back to Pisa Airport. From here, you will board your direct flight back to Dublin, bringing your week in Tuscany to a close.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,545 | Enquire Now |
| 27 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,495 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TF
